The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of a “high risk” storm surge that could occur within the next 48 hours due to Super Typhoon Pepito (international name: Man-yi).

“There is a possibility of life-threatening inundation from rising sea waters, accompanied by high waves in low-lying coastal communities in some municipalities,” PAGASA said in an advisory issued at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 16.

PAGASA added that estimated storm surge heights of more than three meters may occur in La Union, Pangasinan, Quezon, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon and Eastern Samar.

Meanwhile, PAGASA estimated storm surge heights of 2.1 to three meters may also occur in Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Isabela, Aurora, Bataan, Quezon, Batangas, Cavite, Marinduque, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Sorsogon, Biliran, Eastern Samar , Northern Samar and Samar (Western Samar).

Estimated storm surge heights of one to two meters are also expected in Ilocos Norte, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Zambales, Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas and Sorsogon.

PAGASA advised residents living in low-lying coastal communities to stay away from the coast or beach, suspend all marine activities and monitor regular updates from relevant authorities.

In addition, PAGASA urged the public and the concerned offices to reduce the risk of disasters and to “take appropriate measures and precautions” and to be on the lookout for the next storm surge information that will be issued.

As of 1 p.m., the center of Super Typhoon Pepito was estimated to be 200 km east of Juban, Sorsogon, or 180 km east-southeast of Virac, Catanduanes.

It has maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h near the center, gusts of up to 240 km/h, and a central pressure of 920 hPa.

PAGASA said “Pepito” is moving west-northwest at 20 km/h.

Strong typhoon winds extending outward up to 300 km from the center can be expected, according to PAGASA.